Improved Travel Authorisation Scheme for Gulf State Visitors to UK

28 November 2023

The UK’s electronic travel authorisation (ETA) scheme has officially opened for Qatari nationals who, from 15 November 2023, need one to travel to the UK.

His Majesty’s Ambassador to State of Qatar, Jon Wilks CMG, said:

“I am delighted to announce the official opening of the electronic travel authorisation scheme for Qatari nationals, who will be the first in the world to benefit from the scheme. This initiative not only simplifies the travel process for Qataris visiting the UK but also reflects the strength of our bilateral relationship. We look forward to welcoming more visitors from Qatar, further building the human bridge between our two countries.” Nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan will need an ETA to visiting the UK from 22 February 2024, and can apply for their ETA from 1 February 2024.

ETAs are replacing Electronic Visa Waivers (EVW). The new ETA scheme should be an improvement from the EVW, costing less to the traveller, and allowing unlimited visits to the UK over two years, or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner. The visa requirement will be removed for short visits to the UK, for nationals from the Gulf and Jordan.

The UK is currently in advanced talks with the Gulf Cooperation Cancel regarding a potential free trade agreement. Trade between the UK and the GCC nations is worth £61.5 billion per year, currently.

Cutting red tape for business travellers to the UK is will provide a welcome boost for businesses who trade with the region. See the government’s dedicated application page, to apply for an ETA.

Follow Chamber International on Twitter @ChamberInt  and on Facebook for the latest in international trade.